Money for Nothing Guitar Chords
Guitar chords by Dire Straits · Key of G Minor · No Capo
Chords, Key & Strumming Pattern
Chords Used
Strumming Pattern
The D DU DU pattern suits the driving, mechanical feel of Money for Nothing. Mark Knopfler plays with a fingerpicking style live, but for chord-based strumming, keep the D DU DU tight and rhythmic. The Gm7 is the anchor chord — get comfortable transitioning in and out of it at speed.
About This Song
Money for Nothing is a 1985 rock classic by Dire Straits from the Brothers in Arms album, featuring guest vocals by Sting. Famous for its MTV-era guitar riff (one of the most recognisable in rock) and pioneering use of computer animation in the music video, it won Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance. The chord arrangement in G minor is intermediate level, centred around the recurring Gm7 groove.
Song Arrangement — Chord Chart
Intro
Gm7 / C / Gm7 / A# C / Gm7 / − / Gm7 F Gm7
Verse
Gm7 / C / Gm7 / A# C / Gm7 / F / Gm7 — 2 TIMES
Bridge
D# / A# / D# / F / Gm7 / C / D / E
Verse 2
Gm7 / C / Gm7 / A# C / Gm7 / F / Gm7 — 5 TIMES
Frequently Asked Questions
What key is Money for Nothing in?
Money for Nothing by Dire Straits is in G minor.
What is the main chord in Money for Nothing?
The main chord is Gm7, which anchors the intro, verse and outro sections.
Is Money for Nothing hard to play on guitar?
It is intermediate level. The main challenge is the Gm7 chord and fast transitions, especially in the bridge section.
Did Sting play on Money for Nothing?
Yes — Sting sang the backing vocals ('I want my MTV') on Money for Nothing as a guest artist.
Play & Learn Together
Play the melody on keyboard alongside your guitar.
View Piano Notes →Learn minor key rock technique and chord transitions with a pro.
Book Guitar Lessons in Mumbai →Browse our full collection of free guitar chord sheets.
Browse All Guitar Chord Sheets →Learn Guitar Properly
with a Pro Instructor
Chord sheets are a great start. Book a trial class at JBX Music to learn proper technique, rhythm and music theory.
Based in Mumbai? Visit our studio in Goregaon West for in-person guitar lessons — or join online from anywhere in India.
Book Free Guitar Trial — Mumbai